Late Night Consoling

Some interesting new details on future Final Fantasy projects were unearthed today. First, Square Enix is looking into doing a new MMORPG for next-gen consoles. No details were shared, such as if it would be a sequel to FFXI. They did say though that FFXI for Xbox 360 will have graphics on-par with the PC version but have a farther draw distance. A beta test will launch not long after the system is released. At the same time, Final Fantasy X producer Yoshinori Kitase hinted that he was working on the upcoming PS3 Final Fantasy. He also mentioned the PS3 FF7 trailer was a rush job and then dropped another hint; there may be more FF7 spin-off games.

NIS America announced today that it plans to release the strategy RPG Generation of Chaos for the PSP in the spring of 2006. The game is developed by the Japanese studio Dream Factory and the series is a popular one over there. The game features 30 vs. 30 battles where you can either declare war or ally yourself with neighboring kingdoms. In semi-related news, NIS America revealed that those who pre-order Makai Kingdom will receive a 40-page artbook.

Namco revealed to Japanese magazine Famitsu that they are working on a new Dig Dug that will release for the Nintendo DS. Called Dig Dug: Digging Strike, the game is a combination of the first two Dig Dugs with enhanced graphics and updated gameplay features. There will be a two-player mode. It's shipping in September in Japan, but nothing is official for the US. Click the link for gameplay details.

Just a few quick-hit news bits. First, Famitsu reviewed Jade Empire and they weren't exactly thrilled, giving it at a 29 out of 40. CVG reports that developers are finally receiving their beta dev kits for the Xbox 360. The Apple rigs at E3 were described as anywhere between 30 and 70 % of the final hardware horsepower. Finally, Sony's Ken Kutaragi again decides to share his feelings on the Xbox 360.

EuroGamer has an interview regarding Jak X: Combat Racing.